An indisputable body of research shows that early morning school start times are simply bad for teenagers.  Studies indicate that by pushing start times after 8:00 a.m. (between 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. are the ideal), test scores and school performance go up due to improved alertness, memory, attention, and cognitive processing skills. Depression and anxiety rates go down. There is a reduced risk of obesity, eating disorders, and diabetes, as well as better immunity and overall health. Teens that get an adequate amount of sleep show a reduction in alcohol and drug abuse. Sports teams perform better and players get fewer injuries. Tardiness, delinquency, and drop-out rates are reduced. Car accident rates go down.

North Kingstown High School starts at 7:15am—more than an hour earlier than sleep experts recommend.  And many buses pick up as early as 6:20am, seriously compromising students’ ability to get a good night’s sleep.  It’s time that North Kingstown join the nation-wide movement toward healthier start times for high school students.  Please support our students by providing the funding needed to switch to a school start time that is more in line with expert recommendations.

http://www.startschoollater.net/ri---north-kingstown.html